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Williams doing all she can to help Manor

Claire Williams revealed yesterday her team are doing all they can to help Manor claim a place on this year’s Formula One grid.

Formerly known as Marussia, Manor are aiming to return to F1 after falling into administration in October last year.

Now based back at their old headquarters in Dinnington, Yorkshire, Manor are scheduled to emerge from administration on February 19 by entering into a company voluntary arrangement.

Last week, however, it appeared as if a major step towards salvation had been blocked during a meeting of the Strategy Group in Paris.

The group comprises governing body the FIA, F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone and the leading six teams — Ferrari, Mercedes, Red Bull, McLaren, Williams and Force India.

Force India voted against a motion for Manor to use a modified version of their 2014 car for this season, scuttling hopes as unanimity is required from all the teams for such a regulation to be passed.

Manor, however, expressed surprise as they were unaware such a vote was being taken and despite that are ploughing on with their plans to present their case.

Williams, for one, are in support. Deputy team principal Claire Williams said: “Our position has been very clear on this issue.

“We wanted a full, competitive line-up on the grid this year.

“We made it very clear we would vote for them to use a 2014 chassis for this season but unfortunately it has not happened.

“We wanted to help the smaller teams and we are still pushing for them to return.”